Cannes/Rüsselsheim. While it already makes headlines for its styling, versatility and appeal, the new flexible Opel Meriva expands its diesel powertrain line-up to bring more engine choice to families.

With outputs ranging from 55 kW75 hp to 96 kW/140 hp, customers can now choose from five diesels or three gasoline engines that suit their needs. However, Meriva flexibility is not just about its powertrain. Opel’s second-generation small monocab has been elegantly styled, with dynamic lines and sculptural shapes. And, it offers a large choice of innovative features that optimize on-board use of space.

In addition the Meriva is designed to be ergonomic so that the car and its occupants interact efficiently and safely. The flexibility champion is the first automobile ever to receive a seal of approval from an association of independent doctors and back experts, called Aktion Gesunder Rücken (AGR), for its ErgoFlex System. It consists of:

the newly refined FlexSpace rear seating system. While the system is based on the first Meriva, it now requires fewer, more intuitive motions to move the rear seats and change configurations. With FlexSpace, the rear seating can accommodate one, two or three passengers – and still maintain optimal luggage room. A special “lounge seating” position gives passengers the option to seat two with additional leg and shoulder room.

innovative rear-hinged rear doors, which make entry and egress easy and are as cool to look at as they are practical to use. Called FlexDoors, they are full-sized and open independently from the front doors. For optimum access and convenience, the FlexDoors – and the front doors - can open up to 84 degrees, much wider than the 67 degrees aperture of conventional doors, which makes it easy to help buckle children into their seats. They also come with sturdy, practical grab handles near the door opening.

front seats, with class-leading range of adjustment – 240 mm forwards/backwards and 65 mm in height – which make it possible for people of all sizes and shapes to find the most appropriate and comfortable position. In addition, the AGR-certified ergonomic front seats offer four-way adjustable headrests and lumbar support as well as an adjustable thigh support.

the optional FlexFix bicycle carrier, which AGR highly recommends, is integrated into the rear bumper and helps prevent back strain due to heavy lifting. In addition, AGR points out that the ease of use of the FlexFix encourages sport. Finally, it is one more proof to Opel’s commitment to on-board flexibility.

Throughout the cabin, storage space has increased largely because of the efficient use of the space in between the two front seats. This is done through the revolutionary FlexRail console system, consisting of exchangeable storage units that slide on aluminum rails between the front seats, at the most accessible place for both front occupants. The FlexRail system was made possible because of the high mounted gear shift lever and standard electric parking brake.

Optimal combination of expressive design and everyday innovation

The new Meriva is the optimal combination of expressive design and everyday innovations. Designed and developed in Germany, it cleverly extends Opel/Vauxhall’s design language of “sculptural artistry meets German precision” to bring a new sense of purpose and flair to the small monocab segment.

The exterior eliminates the boxy shape usually associated with monocabs and replaces it with a fluid silhouette and a sweeping roof line combined with sculpted volumes, like the “blade” on the front doors that brings drama and motion to the flank. The most visible change, however, comes from the now iconic rear-hinged FlexDoors, which are emphasized by the wave on the window line.

The interior never loses its functionality. The Meriva’s clever rear seating system allows the back to be quickly reconfigured to meet loading and seating requirements. Foremost is the visibility, through the high seating, and roominess, via the FlexSpace system.

While retaining the warm, wrap-around instrument panel that is becoming a hallmark of new Opel design, the designers have optimized space in clever and elegant ways. Examples of this are the new FlexRail console system as well as the storage in the front door which can hold 1.5 liter bottles. Opel also introduces a sophisticated application of colors and accents to unite urban trends in fabrics and décor. Overall, the Meriva offers up to 32 storage opportunities – from back seat pockets to under-seat drawers.

A wide panorama sunroof – the biggest in its segment – keeps the interior light and airy. This is an especially nice feature for rear passengers – important because rear seats are used much more often in this segment than in conventional sedans or wagons. A heated steering wheel is also one of those added pluses not found in this segment.

Powertrain: Down-sized and turbo-charged for efficient performance

The major news late summer 2010 is the introduction of three important diesels, which Opel believes will account for most of Meriva sales in most European countries.

Diesel power starts with the 1.3-liter CDTI engine, which features closed loop combustion control – the first application of this advanced, fuel-saving technology in such a small engine – as well as variable geometry and a super efficient transmission. This variant comes as a new, low-consumption, low-emission ecoFLEX equipped with 70 kW/95 hp.

The 1.7-liter CDTI engine now introduced in the Meriva is available in two executions – 81 kW/110 hp and 96 kW/130 hp. The 1.7-liter is the first to feature an in-house designed D1 fully integrated diesel engine management system, strongly supporting vehicle dynamics and efficiency. Together, the improvements work to lower emissions, improve fuel efficiency and keep noise and vibrations at a minimum. At the same time, they deliver a ride that is smooth and comfortable.

The full diesel line up:

The entry-level 1.3 CDTI (55 kW/75 hp) version with an average fuel consumption of just 4.9 l/100 km with only 129 g/km CO2.

The new 1.3 CDTI ecoFLEX variant (70 kW/95 hp) has 11.2 percent lower fuel consumption and emissions and 21 per cent more power than the Meriva ecoFLEX from the previous generation. It only requires 4.5 l/100 km and emits 119 g/km CO2.

The 1.7 CDTI (74 kW/100hp) comes with a 6 speed automatic transmission for a comfortable drive, a good option for urban use.

The new 1.7 CDTI engine (81 kW/110 hp) makes a debut on the Meriva with six-speed manual transmission;

The new top-of-the-line 1.7 CDTI (96 kW/130 hp) replaces the 92 kW/125 hp variant from the previous generation. With torque growing by over seven per cent to 300 Nm at a lower engine speed, it requires only 5.2 l/100 km.

The gasoline line-up contains three variants of the 1.4-liter multi-valve engine:

The entry 1.4 liter (74 kW/100 hp) is the only naturally-aspirated unit in the Meriva powertrain offer and features variable valve timing for improved combustion efficiency.

A new 1.4 Turbo (88 kW/120 hp) with 175 Nm of torque available from only 1750 rpm made its world debut in the Meriva, replacing the 1.6 with 77 kW/105 hp from the previous generation, for a 10 percent reduction in CO2 and fuel consumption but nearly 15 percent increase in power.

A more powerful 1.4 Turbo (103 kW/140 hp) version tops the offer. It provides 200 Nm of torque and is equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Compared with the 1.8 liter on the previous generation Meriva, the new 1.4 Turbo engine offers a 12 percent increase in power and a 10 percent reduction in CO2 emissions.

All engines comply with the Euro 5 emissions standards. All diesel engines include particulate filters as standard. Opel’s Start/Stop technology, now already fitted on the Agila and Corsa models and soon in the Astra, will be extended to the Meriva range next year. An LPG-version also will come in 2011.

Meriva: the name of a pioneer

Opel created a new market segment for small, affordable monocabs when it launched the first generation Meriva in 2003. With its first generation FlexSpace rear-seating system, high seating position and roomy cabin, it consistently led the segment throughout its lifecycle not only in sales – it has sold more than a million units – but also in quality. The Meriva had the lowest defect rate among 113 different models checked by Germany’s TÜV in 2007.

The second-generation Meriva which premiered in Geneva March 2010 continues to exceed expectations: Though it only hit dealer showrooms in June, Opel has received more than 60,000 units by the end of August. The new Meriva is produced in Zaragoza, Spain.

Powertrain

Efficient Performance through Down-sizing and Turbo-charging

Eight engines from 55 kW/75 hp to 103 kW/140 hp

Turbo-charged diesel range combines fuel efficiency and higher torque

New 1.7 CDTI diesel has six-speed automatic transmission, a first for Meriva

Gasoline line-up includes a new efficient 1.4 Turbo with 88 kW/120 hp

Cannes/Rüsselsheim. The new Meriva’s powertrain line-up is focused on efficient performance through down-sizing and turbo-charging. All engines comply with the Euro 5 emissions standards. All diesel engines include particulate filters as standard.

Diesel power starts with the 1.3-liter CDTI engine, which features closed loop combustion control – the first application of this advanced, fuel-saving technology in such a small engine – as well as variable geometry turbo-charger and an efficient transmission. Together, these work to lower emissions, improve fuel efficiency and keep noise and vibrations at a minimum. At the same time, they deliver a ride that is smooth and comfortable.

The entry-level 1.3 CDTI (55 kW/75 hp) version with an average fuel consumption of just 4.9 l/100 km with only 129 g/km CO2

The latest generation 1.7-liter CDTI engine improves CO2 efficiency, noise and vibration and overall drivability through higher performance and torque. The 1.7 CDTI is Opel’s first engine to feature a D1 diesel engine management system designed in-house. For customers this means their car continues to deliver its initial performance in terms of drivability and efficiency over the longer term. The D1 module also improves service because it offers a number of new diagnostic functionalities and tools to enable vehicle service teams to more accurately monitor engine components.

The 1.7 CDTI range on the Meriva consists of:

1.7 CDTI (74 kW/100hp), which comes with automatic transmission for a comfortable drive, making this engine a good option for city driving.

1.7 CDTI (81 kW/110 hp), which makes a new debut on the Meriva with six-speed manual transmission;

1.7 CDTI (96 kW/130 hp) which replaces the 92 kW/125 hp variant. With torque growing from 280 to 300 Nm at a lower engine speed, it burns only 5.2 l/100 km of diesel, 5.5 percent less than its predecessor, for a sportier ride.

The gasoline line-up contains three variants of the new generation 1.4-liter multi-valve engine:

The entry 1.4-liter (74 kW/100 hp) is the only naturally-aspirated unit in the offer and features variable valve timing for improved breathing.

A brand-new 1.4 Turbo (88 kW/120 hp) with 175 Nm of torque makes its world debut in the Meriva, replacing the 1.6 with 105 hp, for a 10 percent reduction in CO2 and fuel consumption but a 15 percent increase in power.

A more powerful 1.4 Turbo (103 kW/140 hp) version tops the offer. It provides 200 Nm of torque and is equipped with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Compared to the 1.8 of the previous generation Meriva, the new 1.4 Turbo engine offers a 12 percent increase in power and a 10 percent reduction in CO2 emissions.

A six-speed manual gearbox, offering a wide spread of ratios and a tall, fuel-saving top gear, is fitted to the 103 kW/140 hp 1.4 Turbo gasoline engine as well as the 1.7 CDTI 81 kW/110 hp and 1.7 CDTI 96 kW/130 hp choices.

New for the Meriva is an adaptive, six-speed automatic transmission for the 74 kW/100 hp 1.7 CDTI engine features an ActiveSelect function, which allows sequential driver gear selection via the shift lever. The on-axis design of this new transmission enables more compact packaging for enhanced crumple zone performance, increased interior space and a lower hood line than possible with a conventional off-axis design.

All other engines – the 1.4 (74 kW/100 hp), the 1.4 liter (88 kW/120 hp), 1.3 CDTI (70 kW/95 hp) and the 1.3 CDTI (55 kW/75 hp) come with 5-speed manual transmissions. These two-shaft gearboxes are preferred due to their advantages in efficiency and mass balance, optimizing fuel economy. All gearboxes include triple cone synchronization on first and second gears for easy engagement and good shiftability.

Chassis

Improved Dynamics on New Suspension

Improved driving dynamics: Wider track and new suspension layout over first gen

Better feel and precision: New electro-hydraulic power steering system

Enhanced active safety: Larger brakes and sophisticated ESC functions

Cannes/Rüsselsheim. Opel engineers have developed a new suspension and steering for the Meriva to ensure that its dynamic performance and refinement matches its visual appeal.

Driving dynamics are improved by the new Meriva’s wider stance. At 4288 mm, the new Meriva has a 15 mm longer wheelbase, with 39 mm wider front- and 45 mm rear tracks over the first generation for improved handling and greater ride comfort. Electro-hydraulic power steering replaces the previous all-electric set-up.

The increased footprint contributes to more stable and inherently better road-holding capability. The front and rear axle are derived from the Zafira, bringing Opel’s new small monocab closer to the standards of the upper compact class.

A core body structure, 7.6 percent torsionally stiffer than that of the predecessor model, also provided a solid foundation for improving the Meriva’s suspension system and helps attenuate noise and vibration inside the cabin.

Opel engineers have optimized the potential of the Meriva’s enhanced footprint by designing new suspension geometry to improve handling and ride quality. At the front, the McPherson struts features have enlarged top mountings which separate the paths of the spring and damper loadings to improve the steering response and ride comfort. The springs are also designed to resist side loadings, which reduce friction in the movement of the damper.

The lower control arms are attached to a hydro-formed, hollow section sub-frame which is bolted to the body via rubber mountings to further isolate the cabin from road vibrations giving the Meriva a quieter interior. The control arms are fitted with hydraulic bushes which help to further reduce vibration in the steering.

At the rear, a space-saving torsion beam axle is retained, while the thickness of the beam is increased by 0.6 mm to meet the needs of a new geometry. An Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering system replaces the previous all-electric set-up in response to the Meriva’s increased size, larger tire dimensions and the improvements in ride and handling. It is tuned for greater driving feel with less unwanted vibration.

Deceleration power from the dual circuit braking system is increased, with larger brake discs fitted front and rear. Two brake sizes are available, according to engine power:

In order to create more interior space, the Meriva is fitted with an Electric Parking Brake (EPB) as standard. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is also standard across the range and tuned to function progressively, avoiding any sudden early interventions.

The new Opel Meriva cleverly extends the design language of “sculptural artistry meets German precision” first seen on the Insignia and Astra to bring a new sense flair and class to the monocab segment. The styling is dynamic, self-confident and individual, with a silhouette characterized by a longer, lower roof-line.

The Meriva features Opel’s signature wing daytime running lights and has its own interpretation of a blade motif in the body-side. The front view contains a proud grille, carrying a prominent Opel badge, is flanked by large, eagle-eye headlamp units, similar to those found on the new Astra, which incorporate Opel’s signature wing-shaped daytime running lights.

In profile, the new Meriva is distinguished by its innovative wave belt-line, which hints at the practicality of its rear FlexDoors. The rear window line is lowered by five centimeters, improving visibility for rear seat occupants, particularly children.

The rear view styling is unique to the Meriva. Thanks to the distinctive tailored glass and gloss black cover, the eye is led from the roof, down to the integrated license plate depression. The chrome appliqué with integrated touchpad cleverly aligns with the crystal window of the reverse function in the rear lights. These large, sculpted units also echo those of the Astra and incorporate Opel’s signature wing-shaped daytime running lights.

Inside, the biggest changes are ground-breaking, with upscale styling, innovative versatility and class-leading emphasis on wellness. The sweeping lines of the wing-shaped instrument panel extend into the doors, the wrap-around effect creating a warm and inviting look. The high seating position and large windows provide occupants with greater all-round visibility.

The cabin features great interior storage space enhanced by FlexRail, a revolutionary concept for adaptable center console storage. New for the Meriva, the full-length panorama sunroof brings an even airier feel to the cabin. Almost two meters long, with an electrically-powered blind, it is one of the largest offered in the small monocab class. It is available as an option on the Enjoy and Cosmo trim levels.

Designers have used textured materials with a standard of fit and finish typical of a more expensive vehicle. Decor finishes to the air vents, gearshift and center stack controls contribute to the feeling of enhanced quality.

Customers also benefit from an unprecedented choice of color and trim materials, which extend from the classic to a modern/fun urban chic. It is the widest ever offered on an Opel model.

Enjoy level comes in three choices. The Jet Black interior with silver accents is harmonious and contemporary. It comes with satin chrome elements and fashionable fabric with soft contrasting colors. The Cocoa/Medium Dark Cocoa offers a warm interior. It is a classic sophistication with a contemporary twist. The Jet Black/Red Curry spices up the interior with a daring color implementation, for those seeking a strong fashion and sporty statement. Black leather upholstery is also available.

The up-scale Cosmo level offers two choices, all enhanced by satin chrome accents. Jet Black/Dark Galvanized is a masculine color combination that moves in a sporty direction. New to the Meriva is the embossed fabric in combination with Morrocana fabric and silver detailing. The Cocoa /Light Galvanized interior is a fashion statement in sophisticated urban chic. The warm environment color is combined with a large, light and airy wing molding in the dashboard. The embossed fabric combines Morrocana with blood orange detailing. Black leather upholstery is also available.

The Meriva is designed so that the car and its occupants interact efficiently and safely. Opel engineers and designers were so successful that the monocab is the first automobile ever to receive a seal of approval from an association of independent doctors and back experts, called Aktion Gesunder Rücken (AGR), for four innovations that together make up the Opel ErgoFlex System.

Increased flexibility is extended to all areas of the new Meriva. The innovative FlexSpace rear seating system inherited from the first Meriva generation has been further developed and refined. Fewer, more intuitive motions are now necessary to move the rear seats and change configurations. The back can then accommodate one to three passengers and still maximize luggage space.

And, folding the seats down to obtain a loading compartment of up to 1500 liter is also easier now due to a simple strap system allowing maneuvers with one single hand. Straps make folding the rear seat backs possible from the cabin as well as from the luggage compartment.

The seats from the FlexSpace system allow the rear passengers to also sit higher than the occupants of the front seats in a so-called “theater-seating” that provides great visibility onto the road.

The new, generously proportioned Front Seats use a similar structure as those in the Astra and Insignia. They offer a class-leading range of adjustment – 240 mm forwards/backwards and 65 mm in height – making it possible for people of all sizes and shapes to find the most appropriate position. In addition, optional fully adjustable seats certified by AGR and featuring additional tilting, extra lumbar support and thigh extension and four-way adjustable head-rests are also available.

AGR back experts also recommend Opel’s innovative FlexFix bicycle carrier because bicyclists don’t have to strain to get their rack onto the car, then their bikes on the rack. FlexFix slides in and out of the rear bumper like a drawer, and is low to the ground. No special tools, fittings, or storage space in the garage are required. The carrier can hold two bikes and, when not in use, slides back invisibly into the Meriva’s rear bumper. As a bonus, this motivates Meriva users to more often ride their bicycles and have outdoor exercise. FlexFix is available as an option.

Meriva opens up a new dimension in rear seat access with its unique rear-hinged rear doors. The FlexDoors are full-sized and open independently from the front doors, thanks to the use of a safe and robust B-pillar that ensures enhanced stiffness and passive safety.

FlexDoors make it easy to enter and exit without twisting or sliding, even in tight spaces. For optimum access, FlexDoors can open up to 84 degrees – much wider than the usual 67 degrees of conventional doors – and come with sturdy grab handles on the B-pillar that are intuitively used. The Meriva’s front and rear occupants enjoy the same wide-opening access, combined with four angle openings.

FlexDoors are particularly convenient for parents who need to lean into the cabin to install a child seat or help buckle up children. In addition, when the front and rear doors are open at the same time, a safety zone is also created: The rear door no longer separates a child and its parents. This helps parents to keep an eye on their kids, for example, when getting out of the car. It’s also more natural and convenient for the driver or front passenger to open a rear door to stow a jacket, briefcase or an umbrella behind the front seat.

FlexDoors also add a touch of style. Stepping in and out of the vehicle not only feels much more natural, it looks cool and elegant.

Overall, storage space has increased considerably; the Meriva features in total up to 32 accessible locations for items which are most commonly carried. Among those, the revolutionary FlexRail console system consisting of exchangeable storage units that slide on aluminum rails located between the front seats also enhance the ergonomics of the new Meriva and provide, for example, a slide-able comfort armrest. The FlexRail system was made possible because of the high mounted gear shift lever and the electric parking brake that is standard.

An optional special adapter for the middle rear seat back allows the modular FlexRail armrest and cup holder modules to be mounted on the forward folded seat back for the rear passengers.

Equipment

Opel Flexibility Brought to a New Level on Meriva

Opel introduces class-leading features and technologies at affordable prices

Widest-ever selection of interior trims and colors to meet all tastes

Extensive occupant safety equipment

In addition to the ErgoFlex System, the new Meriva introduces innovative technologies at an affordable price and provides generous equipment levels that represent excellent value for money. Together they add up to an elegant, small monocab that is flexible and ergonomic.

New standard features – like the Electric Parking Brake, touchpad tailgate opening and adaptive brake lights – are added to must-haves, like a widely adjustable driver’s seat, a tilt and height adjustable steering wheel, and electrically-powered door mirrors and front windows.

Innovative functions and features include:

Electric Parking Brake (EPB). This very compact and easy-to-use feature replaces the conventional mechanical handbrake. Instead of pulling a lever, the driver simply presses a button located near the gearshift which electrically activates the rear brake calipers. The rear brakes are automatically disengaged when the vehicle moves off. The EPB also frees up space between the front seats, now optimized by the unique FlexRail center console. The EPB is fitted as standard across the range.

Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL). Using halogen bulbs, this acclaimed Opel driving safety system is adapted for the Meriva. It provides Dynamic Curve Light, giving a better view of the road ahead, as the headlamp beam swivels up to 15 degrees according to the steering angle. To assist low-speed maneuvers, Static Cornering Light illuminates an area up to around 90 degrees from the direction of travel. In reverse, the static lights switch on to illuminate the parking area. Available as an option.

Extensive occupant protection. The cabin of the Meriva is as safe as it is comfortable, with an extensive range of occupant protection restraint systems, together with advanced structural design. Fitted as standard are: three-point seatbelts at all seats, front airbags, dual front seatbelt pre-tensioners, front seat belt reminders, Opel’s patented pedal release system (break-away pedals in case of a front crash), an energy absorbing steering system, front passenger airbag de-activation to allow the installation of a rear-faced child seat and rear outer ISOFIX child seat mountings. Front seat-mounted dual chamber thorax/pelvis side airbags, full-length curtain airbags and seatbelt reminders for the rear seats are standard with Enjoy and Cosmo and optional for Essentia.

Whenever the airbags and pre-tensioners are deployed, a series of additional safety measures are automatically activated: The hazard warning lights come on, all doors are unlocked, the interior lights are switched on and the interior heating/ventilation fan and the fuel pump are both switched off.

Adaptive brake lights warn following drivers by pulsing five times per second when the ABS is engaged at speeds above 30 km/h. All three brake lights are activated.